Software

Let’s start with the 2 main types of software you will encounter in laptops that are meant for simple everyday use.

Windows

The Windows operating system is the most widespread, is familiar to the majority of users, and offers open access to applications. With Windows software, you will find the widest range of laptops in terms of appearance, features, and price range.

Chrome OS

This is Google’s software, which is designed for low-spec, low-power systems and is intended mainly for browsing the Internet and social media.

Skroutz Tip: If you do not have the necessary knowledge, avoid models that have Linux or do not have an operating system in general.

Hardware

Processor (CPU)

The processor is the “brain” of the computer, and all processes are executed by it.  If you just want to browse or keep documents, an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 (the 2 main brands) will be sufficient. On the other hand, if you want to run many programs at the same time such as Excel, Word and Powerpoint, prefer Intel Core i5 and AMD Ryzen 5 respectively.

Just pay attention to the processor generation, meaning the first number in its name. e.g. i5-12450H (12th generation).

For Intel, look for 12th generation and above, while for AMD 7th generation respectively.

RAM Memory

It determines the amount of information and parallel tasks that the computer can manage / execute at the same time at a given moment. 
As with the processor, if you just want to consume content and use social media, 8GB RAM is enough. At the same time, if you want to invest in something more powerful in case you need to run heavier programs in the future, there are many affordable options with 16GB RAM, for improved speed.

Hard Drive

If you want to store songs and photos, a Laptop with 128GB or 256GB of storage will cover your needs. If you want to have your movie library on your computer, then choose 512GB for greater comfort.

Skroutz Tip: Don’t worry about the graphics card, as most processors have an integrated graphics card for the needs you are trying to cover.

Display

Size

Choose something between 14 - 15.6 inches to combine viewing comfort with portability, since usually a smaller screen means a less bulky device. If, on the other hand, you are on the move all day and want to have your laptop with you everywhere and always, there are options with a screen smaller than 13.6”, but keep in mind that a smaller size usually goes hand in hand with a smaller battery. Finally, if your laptop is meant to be a homebody and mainly for watching movies and series, you can choose a model with a screen larger than 16”.

Resolution

Our advice is that if you plan to use it for videos and movies, prefer an FHD screen, since it offers a satisfactory image at quite affordable prices. Higher resolutions, such as 4K, do not make much sense, as they apply to models with very powerful hardware that are mainly aimed at gaming and video editing.

Our recommendations

The most common "everyday" questions

Can I also play games on a simple budget laptop?

Latest-generation games like Call of Duty and Apex Legends require a dedicated graphics card, something that usually is not found in budget laptops. However, if you have an i5 processor and 16GB RAM, it can support games like LoL, Age of Empires, and others that do not have high hardware requirements.

What is the difference between Windows 11 Home and Windows 11 Pro?

Home is a slightly more limited version with some performance restrictions, but if you are using it for basic tasks, you won't even notice them! If you want to use it for working from home as well, then choose Pro, since the former may limit you quite a bit.

How large a screen do I need?

If frequent portability matters to you, choose something between 13.6" and 14.5", since a smaller screen may tire you over time, while a larger one will take up more space but will also be heavier. Now, if you do not care about carrying it with you often, choose a screen over 15" for comfortable viewing.